Even the most devoted caregivers need rest and support. Respite care is a reliable resource.

Balancing the roles and responsibilities of looking after a senior loved one can be challenging, even for the most dedicated and energetic caregiver.

Even when you want to be there for your loved one more than anything, sometimes other family obligations and “life stuff” need your attention, too. What do you do when you have to be in two places at once?

A senior living respite stay for your loved one may be just the answer you’re looking for. Respite stays can be a caring and conscientious way of looking after your senior loved one and yourself.

Learn more about respite stays in senior living, how respite stays work, and how families and seniors can benefit. Plus, see our tips for a successful respite stay.

What is Respite Care? How Does it Work?

A respite stay in a senior living community is a short-term stay that allows family caregivers to press “pause” on the day-to-day demands of caregiving, whether to tend to other matters or to take a much-needed rest.

During a respite stay, seniors receive all the benefits of the community, including care services, meals, fun social activities, and use of the community’s amenities, all in a safe and friendly environment.

Respite stays may last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. At Sunnyside Manor, respite stays are available in Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and our Skilled Nursing neighborhood. Respite stay residents in each neighborhood receive all the neighborhood’s benefits and services during their stay.

When are Respite Stays Helpful?

Respite stays can be a vital support system for family caregivers. Families may choose respite care when extra help is needed with the day-to-day tasks of caregiving. It’s like having an extended family of caregivers to step in and help when you need it.

Some common reasons families choose respite care for a senior loved one:

• A caregiver needs time to tend to their own health, whether to recover from an illness or undergo a medical procedure.
• Vacation or other travel.
• Maintenance or renovations in the home.

Most of all, sometimes even the most devoted caregivers need a rest. Respite stays can offer a welcome time to recharge without worry.

Benefits of Respite Care

Respite care can be beneficial for the mental, physical, and emotional health of seniors and their caregivers.

Benefits of respite stays for seniors:

• Socialization. During respite stays, seniors can participate in all activities and programs in the community and spend time with peers.
• Professional, personalized care. All care services are provided by professional caregivers and extra help is always just around the corner.
• Special meals and events. Meals are a highlight, especially here at Sunnyside Manor. Enjoy restaurant style meals, plus happy hours and treats available throughout the day.
• A “test run.” If you’re considering a move, a respite stay is a low-stakes way to have a “trial stay” in a senior living community.

Benefits of respite stays for family caregivers:

• Rest without worry. Take time off, knowing your loved one is cared for and safe.
• Time to recharge. Taking time to recharge gives you energy to look after your loved one and yourself.
• Time to focus. Big life events, like major home renovations, moves, or celebrations can take a lot of time and energy. Having extra caregiving support to rely on during these times can help everything run more smoothly.
• Travel lighter. When life takes you away from home, you can travel lighter knowing that your loved one is safe and cared for.

Best of all, when you’re well rested and recharged, you’re better able to be there for your loved one and focus on what matters most.

Tips for a Successful Respite Stay

• Plan ahead! While emergency respite care can be coordinated, taking your time will make the process easier and more relaxed.
• Have your loved one’s medical information available, so that our staff have all the information they need to make your loved one’s stay safe and comfortable.
• Encourage your loved one to make the most of all the community has to offer: meals, entertainment, spaces to explore, friendly neighbors, plus the privacy of their apartment.
• If respite care is new to your loved one and your family, try a stay during a low-pressure time, for example a weekend you’ve dedicated to taking care of projects around the house.

Ready to try a respite stay? Contact us to learn more. 

Learn More About Why Families Rely On Sunnyside Manor

When you have questions about senior living, we are here to help. Sunnyside Manor offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more about Sunnyside Manor’s resources for caregivers. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or a longer-term plan, begin with our “Getting Started” guide. Please call us at 888-696-2052 to speak with a senior living expert.

Sunnyside Manor, located in Wall NJ, is the area’s premier family-owned senior living community. The community features three distinctive neighborhoods: Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and Long Term Care & Sub-acute Rehabilitation. Respite stays and palliative care are available in all neighborhoods.